After activating emergency response in adult CPR, what should you do next?

In adult CPR, after activating the emergency response system, checking for responsiveness is a vital step. This process involves assessing whether the individual is conscious and responsive, which guides the rescuer in determining the next steps. By checking for responsiveness, you can quickly ascertain if the person needs immediate assistance, such as beginning chest compressions or using an AED.

If the person is unresponsive, this confirms the need for immediate medical intervention and indicates that CPR is necessary. This initial assessment is crucial because it allows the rescuer to make informed decisions about whether to proceed directly with compressions or if more advanced help is needed.

Other actions, such as starting compressions or retrieving an AED, should only occur after this immediate assessment. Thus, confirming the individual's state of responsiveness ensures that lifesaving measures are appropriately tailored to the situation at hand.